The 18-year-old, who signed off with victory at Brackley Town on Saturday, is heading back to the John Smith's Stadium ahead of the busy festive period.

"Loick has been superb," reflected manager Craig Elliott. "I am sure he has learned a lot. I am really disappointed that he is going back - but he goes back with our best wishes. Hopefully he can get into the first team.

"That's the pathway - they come to us to learn and get that experience and he has done that. I know Huddersfield have been really happy with him.

"He's been a great character and I wish him nothing but the best."

Ayina's departure has been offset by the arrival of 19-year-old Sheffield United centre-half Kyron Gordon until the New Year.

Gordon made his United debut as a late substitute at Brackley on Saturday and Elliott added: "We have been after Kyron for a while. I have watched a lot of him in the under-23s at Sheffield United.

"He gives us good balance and knows the system we are playing at the moment."